I'd choose islands with a bit of a hitsorical past like Antigua and Barbados. Also Dominica with its unique wonderul rain forests . St Thomas and St Maarten are great for shopping. Cozumel, although rows of shops, has some great restaurants and Mexican style.

Like you we are not beach people, we only live three miles from the sea but rarely go down to the beach. We went on a caribbean cruise last yearand enjoyed it very much, there is more to the caribbean than just beaches, lovely as they are if you like beaches. The caribbean is both colourful and friendly and has some beautiful scenery and an interesting colonial past, plus of course if you go at the right time of year a superb climate. Wherever you choose to go have a lovely time and a great "very special Birthday".

We love P&O Oriana it's a lovely ship with a great captain, we have also sailed on Artemis which is child free as is Arcadia, Artemis is a smaller ship than Arcadia and in general seems to be favoured by the older age group, we are in that group although young at heart, she is an older ship but quite comfortable. Arcadia is much bigger and a little too modern in decor for our taste but nevertheless we enjoyed our cruise on her. Oceana is also a nice ship and has a lovely atrium, she is patronised by a fair few families with children but we never found it a problem as the children are well catered for. Overall I would have to say that Oriana is our favourite ship but of course that is only in our opinion. Hope this helps.

I agree with the previous comments as I've yet to meet anyone of any age bracket that has not enjoyed the Caribbean. It also has probably the highest number of cruise ship/lines operating in that part of the world, so the choice of which ship is best for you is dependant on so many factors. 3 star, 4 star, 5 star, 6 star, large, small, lively, quiet, cheap & cheerful, money no object.........You need to consider carefully what's right for you & then talk to a Cruise Specialist like the number at the top of this page, (no I don't work for them), & get 'proper' advice. I would avoid using the High St travel shops for cruises. Regards Wilba.

My husband is not a beach lover and we have been on two cruises to the Caribbean and have found loads to do. Do your homework first and you will have a great time. When you get off the ship armed with wher eyou want to visit you can haggle with the cab drivers!!! Don't let them talk you into going to the tourisy places!!
If you want to book one of the specialist restaurants on board for the big day do this before you go as it will save a lot of heart ache.